Dog pregnancy typically lasts about two months, but the early signs can be subtle. In fact, many of the changes associated with pregnancy can also occur with other medical or hormonal conditions.

That means symptoms alone cannot confirm pregnancy. Your veterinarian is the right person to determine whether your dog is expecting puppies.

Here are five signs you may notice.

1. Changes in Appetite

Some dogs experience changes in appetite during the early stages of pregnancy.

Your dog might temporarily eat less than usual or occasionally experience mild nausea or vomiting. Later in pregnancy, her appetite may increase as her nutritional needs change.

However, loss of appetite and vomiting can have many causes unrelated to pregnancy.

If your dog refuses food, vomits repeatedly, seems weak, or appears unwell, contact your veterinarian rather than assuming pregnancy is the cause.

2. Lower Energy Levels

Is your normally energetic dog suddenly spending more time sleeping?

Pregnancy can sometimes cause dogs to become less active or tire more easily, particularly as pregnancy progresses.

But a sudden or significant decrease in energy can also indicate illness.

Pay attention to your dog's overall behavior. If lethargy is severe or accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, pain, breathing problems, or other concerning symptoms, seek veterinary care.

3. Changes in the Nipples

One physical change you may notice is that your dog's nipples become more prominent.

They may appear slightly enlarged or change in appearance as her body prepares for nursing.

However, nipple changes alone aren't proof of pregnancy. Hormonal changes, including false pregnancy, can produce similar signs.

4. Weight Gain and a Growing Abdomen

As pregnancy progresses, your dog may begin gaining weight and her abdomen may become noticeably larger.

These changes generally become easier to see later in pregnancy.

Don't try to determine pregnancy by pressing or feeling your dog's abdomen yourself. Your veterinarian can use appropriate diagnostic methods to check for pregnancy safely.

A swollen abdomen can also have causes unrelated to pregnancy, some of which require prompt medical attention.

5. Nesting and Behavioral Changes

As delivery approaches, some pregnant dogs begin displaying nesting behavior.

You may notice your dog:

• Searching for quiet or secluded areas
• Rearranging blankets or bedding
• Becoming more affectionate
• Wanting more privacy
• Appearing restless
• Spending more time in her chosen sleeping area

Again, these behaviors aren't exclusive to pregnancy. Dogs experiencing a false pregnancy may display similar behaviors.

How Can You Know for Sure?

If you think your dog may be pregnant, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Depending on how far along she may be, a veterinarian can recommend appropriate methods to confirm pregnancy and monitor her health.

Veterinary care is particularly important because pregnancy changes a dog's nutritional and healthcare needs.

Avoid starting supplements, medications, special diets, or dramatically increasing food portions without veterinary guidance.

Preparing for Puppies

Once pregnancy has been confirmed, ask your veterinarian about:

• Appropriate nutrition
• Safe exercise
• Medications and parasite prevention
• Vaccination considerations
• Expected delivery date
• Preparing a safe whelping area
• Warning signs during pregnancy
• Signs of labor
• When emergency veterinary care is necessary

Having a plan before labor begins can make an enormous difference.

One More Important Consideration

Pregnancy and raising puppies are significant responsibilities.

If the pregnancy was unexpected, talk with your veterinarian about your options and the health of your dog.

And when puppies eventually need homes, responsible placement matters. New families should understand the time, financial commitment, training, veterinary care, and lifelong responsibility involved in bringing home a dog.

At Shocco’s, we believe every animal deserves a safe, loving and responsible home.

Shoccos.com — Connecting Pets, People & Care.

Important Medical Disclaimer

This article provides general educational information and isn't a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect your dog is pregnant, contact a licensed veterinarian for confirmation and appropriate prenatal care.